10 Things To Consider When Milk Market Declines

December 28, 2017

Feed is the biggest cost for a dairy farm. When milk prices decline, it is tempting to cut feed costs, however, cows should still be fed a balanced ration in order to maximise yield.

When milk prices decline, it may feel like there is not much you can do. However, there are still many things a farmer can do with the diets and feeding management to maintain profitability or minimise losses. Here are some of the things to take note of:

1. Maximise high quality, homegrown forages and grains

Feeding homegrown ingredients will lower feed costs as the amount of feed purchased is reduced.

It is also important to have proper timing of harvest in order to achieve high yield.

To maintain quality and reduce dry matter loss, make sure it is stored appropriately.

2. Consider affordable byproduct ingredients

There are many byproduct that is affordable in the market.

However, their nutrient content varies greatly. It is important to test frequently to make sure they are fit for your feeding program.

It is important to work with a reliable supplier that will assure these ingredients have stable nutrient content and is free from bacteria and other hazards.

To reduce dietary nutrient variation from using byproducts, it is encouraged to incorporate multiple ingredients into the ration.

3. Focus on milk component

There are some markets that will pay a premium for milk fat or protein.

One way to increase milk component is to make sure there is optimal ruminal fermentation with proper balance of fibrous and non fibrous carbohydrates alongside with quality rumen-degradable and undegradable proteins.

4. Maximising milk quality premiums

Generally, proper sanitation and milking protocols are the most important factors for maintaining milk quality.

However, feeding programs can also help to maintain a proper functioning immune system which will help combat mastitis and lower somatic cell counts.

5. Minimising shrink

Shrink is defined as the feed purchased or harvested that doesn't get into the cow.

These include dry matter losses from poorly stored silage as well as excessive feed refusals or inaccurate mixing.

6. Number of TMRs

Although TMRs can of a group can provide labour savings in some herd, those savings may be outweighed by inefficient use of nutrients when the milk prices are low.

The ration is normally design to meet the needs of highest producing cows. However, it can be wasteful when feeding it to mid and late lactation animals.